Where to stay in Royal Mile
Edinburgh's Royal Mile is more than just a street; it is a remarkable location! Its convenience places you at the centre of all the main attractions, museums, and the iconic Royal Mile—everything is just a stone's throw away! However, this may not be the best spot for you if you seek tranquillity.
The Royal Mile bustles with energy during the high season, and while it quiets down a bit in the low season, true serenity is complex to come by. The Royal Mile is the city's vibrant pulse, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It's a place that blends history, art, and charming cobblestone streets, creating a unique and enchanting experience.
A day on the Royal Mile is an adventure! I love starting at Edinburgh Castle for stunning views and then wandering through captivating museums, galleries, and quirky shops. When it's time to recharge, you can find a cozy café or traditional pub offering a warm bowl of Cullen skink or a chilled pint. During the Edinburgh Festival, the Mile transforms with exhilarating street performances that create an incredible atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the magic of Edinburgh and create lasting memories! If you prefer a quieter stay, consider booking a cozy hotel just a few streets away from the Royal Mile, allowing you to escape the hustle while still enjoying easy access to all the action.
Price:
Hotels and guesthouses on the Royal Mile are costly compared to similar accommodations elsewhere. While the price difference is not substantial during the low season, prices soar in the high season, and availability is often limited.
Pros:
- Historic Charm: The Royal Mile, a living museum of Edinburgh's past, offers a unique historical experience. With its landmarks, centuries-old buildings, and cobbled streets, staying here is more than just a visit-it's an immersion into the city's rich heritage.
- Central Location: The Royal Mile's heart-of-the-city location is within easy walking distance of top attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and Arthur’s Seat. It's a perfect starting point for your Edinburgh adventure.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The Royal Mile is a hub of activity, from street performers to cultural events. The lively buzz will keep you entertained and ensure you're never short of things to see and do outside your door.
- Plenty of Dining Options: The area has cosy pubs, traditional Scottish eateries, and upscale restaurants. After a day of sightseeing, you can easily grab a bite to eat.
- Excellent Transport Links: The Royal Mile is well-served by public transport, making exploring the rest of Edinburgh easy.
Cons:
- Crowded and Noisy: Being the most famous street in Edinburgh, the Royal Mile can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s a lively, bustling area, which might not appeal to everyone.
- Expensive Accommodation: Because of its prime location, staying on or near the Royal Mile can be pricier, especially during festivals or peak seasons.
- Tourist-Centric: While it’s terrific for those wanting to be close to the main attractions, the Royal Mile can feel overly commercialized, with lots of souvenir shops and crowds.
- Limited Quiet Spots: The Royal Mile might not be the best choice if you're looking for peace and quiet. It’s a popular tourist destination and can get noisy, especially in the evenings.
You can also view accommodations in the Royal Mile area from this map by entering your travel dates, number of travellers, and budget per night. Then click the "See accommodations" button and make your selection.
Accommodations suggestions on the Royal Mile
Boutique Hotels and Stylish Stays
for those who want to stay in style while being close to all the action, boutique hotels on the Royal Mile offer a mix of modern comfort and historic charm.
for those who want to stay in style while being close to all the action, boutique hotels on the Royal Mile offer a mix of modern comfort and historic charm.
Top Picks:
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh ($$$) – this chic hotel is right on the Royal Mile and offers sleek, modern rooms with all the amenities you could need.
BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh ($$$) - is a unique and vibrant hotel located in the heart of Edinburgh. Part of the BrewDog brand, the hotel combines modern accommodations with the spirit of craft beer culture, making it a fun and quirky choice for those visiting the Scottish capital.
The Inn on the Mile ($$) - s a charming boutique hotel located on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, offering a perfect blend of traditional Scottish hospitality and modern comfort.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh ($$$) – this chic hotel is right on the Royal Mile and offers sleek, modern rooms with all the amenities you could need.
BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh ($$$) - is a unique and vibrant hotel located in the heart of Edinburgh. Part of the BrewDog brand, the hotel combines modern accommodations with the spirit of craft beer culture, making it a fun and quirky choice for those visiting the Scottish capital.
The Inn on the Mile ($$) - s a charming boutique hotel located on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, offering a perfect blend of traditional Scottish hospitality and modern comfort.
Market Street Hotel ($$$) is a charming and uniquely designed hotel located along Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile. Some of the rooms feature a complimentary minibar, adding an extra touch of convenience and indulgence for guests.
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Traditional Guesthouses and B&Bs
if you're looking for a more personal and intimate experience, the Royal Mile is home to charming guesthouses and B&Bs where you can enjoy a warm Scottish welcome.
Top Picks:
Destiny Scotland Market Street Apartments ($$) - offers stylish and modern serviced apartments located in the heart of Edinburgh.
MONO Suites Old Town ($$) - s a chic and modern accommodation option located right on Edinburgh's iconic Royal Mile, offering guests a stylish and convenient base to explore the city.
Fraser Suites Edinburgh ($$) - housed in a beautiful Georgian building, this hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern convenience, making it a perfect choice for both short and long-term stays.
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Historic Hotels with Character
for a stay that feels part of Edinburgh's rich history, consider one of the classic hotels along the Royal Mile.
Top Picks:
The Witchery by the Castle ($$$$$) – is a gothic-themed boutique hotel that provides a genuinely atmospheric stay, perfect for couples looking for something unique.
The Scotsman Hotel ($$$) - housed in the former offices of The Scotsman newspaper, this hotel blends classic elegance with contemporary luxury. It is a perfect choice for those who want to experience the grandeur of Edinburgh in style.
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Budget-Friendly Options
for those who want to stay on the Royal Mile but are mindful of their budget, there are still options that don't break the bank.
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal ($$) - is a stylish and budget-friendly hotel. Known for its modern design and comfortable accommodations, Motel One offers an excellent option for travellers who want a central base without the high price tag of more luxurious hotels.
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh ($$) - is a stylish and contemporary hotel located in a prime position near Edinburgh's city center.
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge ($$) - is a modern, budget-friendly simple hotel located in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
Holyrood Aparthotel ($$) - is a stylish and comfortable serviced apartment
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile ($$) offers a convenient and comfortable apartment hotel experience in the heart of Edinburgh, just steps away from the Royal Mile. Some of the rooms are also designed to be family-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with children.
Castle Rock Hostel - Adults Only ($) - is a vibrant and unique accommodation option located in the heart of Edinburgh, offering guests an unforgettable stay with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.
CoDE Pod—The CoURT ($) is one of Edinburgh's best-quality hostels, with an excellent location. It is clean and tidy; you can choose between a dormitory and a private room.
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If you're looking for a different vibe, you can explore areas like the West End or New Town. These areas offer a mix of local culture, trendy cafes, and boutique shops while being close to public transport links to the city centre.